http://www.autoevolution.com/auto-guide/ Auto Guide - autoevolution autoevolution RSS Generator en-us autoevolution.com Thu, 18 Mar 2010 07:42:08 +0000 Thu, 18 Mar 2010 07:42:08 +0000 automotive http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss 10 http://www.autoevolution.com/favicon.ico http://www.autoevolution.com/img/ae_logo.jpg?v=3 http://www.autoevolution.com/auto-guide/ http://www.autoevolution.com/news/getting-your-4x4-ready-for-off-roading-18162.html
The good news is that off-roading does not require an expensive car. Your beloved vehicle will have to face mud, water, tree-branch scratches, bumps and dents, so it is recommended that you start with a small, cheap but capable car, like a Suzuki...]]> If you're the type of guy or gal that loves the nature but doesn't have the will power to leave the car at home and go kicking, than off-roading might be your game. This hobby may look expensive, as the first thing you need is an all-wheel-drive car.

The good news is that off-roading does not require an expensive car. Your beloved vehicle will have to face mud, water, tree-branch scratches, bumps and dents, so it is recommended that you start with a small, cheap but capable car, like a Suzuki... (read more)]]> Wed, 17 Mar 2010 14:41:32 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/getting-your-4x4-ready-for-off-roading-18162.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/getting-your-4x4-ready-for-off-roading-18162.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-speed-cameras-work-18060.html
We couldn't care less what the answers to the above questions should be. Not here, at least. What we will try to do here ...]]> A sight dreaded by drivers even more than traffic policemen, speed cameras have not been around for a long time, yet they have shortly become one of the favorite pub, media and home topics for drivers and non-drivers alike. Are they useful? Are they accurate? Should they be used? Do they interfere with that "privacy right", so acclaimed by human rights activists?

We couldn't care less what the answers to the above questions should be. Not here, at least. What we will try to do here ... (read more)]]> Mon, 15 Mar 2010 14:41:52 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-speed-cameras-work-18060.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-speed-cameras-work-18060.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/brake-override-systems-explained-17876.html
It happened to Toyota and, although the solution was as obvious as it could get, integrating it ...]]> At a time when the automotive industry is hit by one of the largest recalls ever, automakers are trying to develop new and safer technologies that would be able to prevent all kind of problems that might occur while driving. And taking into account the very advanced hardware and software components a car is equipped with nowadays, such a task could prove to be a bit harder than initially expected.

It happened to Toyota and, although the solution was as obvious as it could get, integrating it ... (read more)]]> Wed, 10 Mar 2010 14:02:10 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/brake-override-systems-explained-17876.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/brake-override-systems-explained-17876.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/used-motorcycle-buying-tips-17515.html
This is only the beginning. If this sounds hard, wait until you hear all...]]> Buying a motorcycle is a difficult task for most bikers, and it gets worse when it comes to a used one. This is why we will give you some basic tips to guide you in the process. The first things that should cross your mind is what type of motorcycle are you interested in. However, if experienced riders already know what they are looking for, the things get complicated when you look to buy your first two-wheeled vehicle.

This is only the beginning. If this sounds hard, wait until you hear all... (read more)]]> Tue, 2 Mar 2010 17:24:54 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/used-motorcycle-buying-tips-17515.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/used-motorcycle-buying-tips-17515.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/lotus-evora-414e-hybrid-explained-17322.html
Truth be told, most manufacturers in the field have already ...]]> As we slowly creep towards a new era in the automotive world, it becomes more and more obvious no single manufacturer out there who will survive if it doesn't begin to offer at least a hybrid in its line-up. This, unfortunately for some, means sports cars and supercars manufacturers will slowly switch from internal combustion to hybrids and EVs, puting an end to the century or so long era of high revs and incredible engine sounds.

Truth be told, most manufacturers in the field have already ... (read more)]]> Thu, 25 Feb 2010 15:05:56 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/lotus-evora-414e-hybrid-explained-17322.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/lotus-evora-414e-hybrid-explained-17322.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/vehicle-depreciation-rate-why-you-lose-money-16919.html
As you all know by now, almost never a car bought, let's say today, will be sold again in the future, no matter how distant, at the same price. The difference between the price paid at the purchase ...]]> In the times we are living, no single car buyer purchases a car thinking he/she will keep it for the rest of his/her life. With the car exchange time now standing at around three or four years, consumers have begun paying much more attention to what is called the depreciation rate of the vehicle.

As you all know by now, almost never a car bought, let's say today, will be sold again in the future, no matter how distant, at the same price. The difference between the price paid at the purchase ... (read more)]]> Tue, 16 Feb 2010 14:25:31 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/vehicle-depreciation-rate-why-you-lose-money-16919.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/vehicle-depreciation-rate-why-you-lose-money-16919.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/stuck-in-snow-how-to-live-and-tell-the-tale-16622.html
That much snow falling all at once is a bad thing for a huge number of reasons, but that doesn't concern us here. The snow is enou...]]> In just a few days this February, two major snow storms hit the US, with forecasters warning that after the second one is over, the East Coast would find itself under 36 inches of snow. Roughly the same thing happened in the beginning of February in Europe as well, making parts of the Old Continent look like a scene just out of "The Day After Tomorrow".

That much snow falling all at once is a bad thing for a huge number of reasons, but that doesn't concern us here. The snow is enou... (read more)]]> Wed, 10 Feb 2010 15:00:47 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/stuck-in-snow-how-to-live-and-tell-the-tale-16622.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/stuck-in-snow-how-to-live-and-tell-the-tale-16622.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/must-have-motorcycle-gadgets-16354.html
The following gadgets have the purpose of making your journeys more comfortable an stress-free, and why not, even bring a little bit of fun with them. The more r...]]> A motorcycle is far from being just a means of transportation, but it's a pride and passion and sometimes even more. Simply put, it becomes a way of life. However, believe it or not, there are some things that could enhance your two-wheel experience. Some would say there are just whims, others just can't imagine riding without them.

The following gadgets have the purpose of making your journeys more comfortable an stress-free, and why not, even bring a little bit of fun with them. The more r... (read more)]]> Thu, 4 Feb 2010 17:51:06 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/must-have-motorcycle-gadgets-16354.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/must-have-motorcycle-gadgets-16354.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-to-understand-car-noises-16067.html
If the noise will not eventually result in a deadly failure for the car, the driver will likely tend to ignore it, especially because strange noises have ...]]> We are pretty sure there is no single driver out there who hasn't experienced, at one point in his driving career, strange or eerie noises coming from the car. Regardless of the type of noise, a sudden screech, knock, rattle or whistle is enough to send the driver into a not so pleasant state: What happened? What's wrong? Will my car be OK?

If the noise will not eventually result in a deadly failure for the car, the driver will likely tend to ignore it, especially because strange noises have ... (read more)]]> Fri, 29 Jan 2010 14:33:33 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-to-understand-car-noises-16067.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-to-understand-car-noises-16067.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/motorcycle-winter-storage-tips-before-and-after-15960.html
So you get to the point when your a$$ starts to freeze... literally. Nobody likes it, but then again, there's no need to push your limits... nor your motorcycle...]]> For some bikers winter can be quite disturbing, as it prevents them from enjoying the pleasure of two wheels for a couple of months. That's because unless the motorcycle is not snow-modified, they have to put it away and replace it with some other means of transportation that are less satisfactory for the adrenaline junkies out there.

So you get to the point when your a$$ starts to freeze... literally. Nobody likes it, but then again, there's no need to push your limits... nor your motorcycle... (read more)]]> Wed, 27 Jan 2010 19:36:23 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/motorcycle-winter-storage-tips-before-and-after-15960.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/motorcycle-winter-storage-tips-before-and-after-15960.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-formula-one-mirrors-work-15667.html
But that's basic infor...]]> We all know that every single detail on a modern Formula One car has to do with aerodynamics nowadays. And that's the logical progression of the policy introduced by the International Automobile Federation (FIA) regarding engine development inside the series. Once the teams were not allowed to further increase their engines' performances, it was only natural for the engineers and designers to start focusing on other ways to improve the car's capabilities while on track.

But that's basic infor... (read more)]]> Wed, 20 Jan 2010 15:06:09 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-formula-one-mirrors-work-15667.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-formula-one-mirrors-work-15667.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/the-scuderi-engine-strength-in-pairs-15457.html
WHAT IS IT

As you might have guessed, a split engine is a type of intern...]]> The beginning of 2010 brought to the automotive scene rumor of an ongoing research within German manufacturer BMW's engineering labs, aimed at developing a split engine hybrid for the future generations of BMW models. Rumored to have already filed a patent application for the technology, BMW has opened our appetite for digging a bit deeper into the technology and finding out the whys and hows of a split cycle engine.

WHAT IS IT

As you might have guessed, a split engine is a type of intern... (read more)]]> Thu, 14 Jan 2010 14:31:55 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/the-scuderi-engine-strength-in-pairs-15457.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/the-scuderi-engine-strength-in-pairs-15457.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/choosing-motorcycle-tires-15357.html Bikers often encounter problems when it comes to choosing the right tires to suit their motorcycle and the road conditions they expect to face. Aside from creating the physical and visual connection to the road, tires are just as important as any other critical component of the bike. You cannot expect for your tires to go on forever, as they are a subject to depreciation. This is when various elements need to be taken into consideration, such as the category of the motorcycle you own and the rid... (read more)]]> Tue, 12 Jan 2010 16:11:53 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/choosing-motorcycle-tires-15357.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/choosing-motorcycle-tires-15357.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/brutally-reducing-all-kinetic-energy-the-romantic-high-tech-brake-guide-15189.html
As hot hatches achieve new levels of performance and enter proper sport cars territory, the latter become more and more powerful themselves and threaten supercars. Some of these are so determined to maintain their supremacy that they mutate into hypercars. The German power wars create saloon monsters which feature previously unimaginable power figures. Tuners have also evolved and nowadays increasing perform...]]> Introduction- If you put one pedal through the metal, the second will have to follow

As hot hatches achieve new levels of performance and enter proper sport cars territory, the latter become more and more powerful themselves and threaten supercars. Some of these are so determined to maintain their supremacy that they mutate into hypercars. The German power wars create saloon monsters which feature previously unimaginable power figures. Tuners have also evolved and nowadays increasing perform... (read more)]]> Thu, 7 Jan 2010 16:04:52 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/brutally-reducing-all-kinetic-energy-the-romantic-high-tech-brake-guide-15189.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/brutally-reducing-all-kinetic-energy-the-romantic-high-tech-brake-guide-15189.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-parking-heaters-work-14906.html
However, with the after market parking ...]]> In winter times, it's practically an understatement to say that most of us find it difficult to wake up from our warm beds and trade our much-needed comfort in the early hours of the morning for a cold, freezing experience inside the car you're about to drive to work. Let's face it, it's complete nightmare to get out of bed, look out the window, see the icing cold temperatures outside and imagine yourself walking down the alley and into your frozen car.

However, with the after market parking ... (read more)]]> Mon, 28 Dec 2009 15:27:23 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-parking-heaters-work-14906.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-parking-heaters-work-14906.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/mercedes-aircap-keeping-your-hair-in-one-place-14585.html
On the other hand, future convertible car owners may be able to bypass the issue thanks to Mercedes' new system, featured on the recently introduced E-Klasse Cabriolet. Dubbed by the Stuttgart-based carmaker AIRCAP, the system is meant to do two things: keep air turbulence to a minimum and enable o...]]> Convertible car owners, regardless of the make, model or whatever, have always experienced some (major) difficulties handling one of such a vehicle's most dreaded enemy (no, not rain): turbulence.

On the other hand, future convertible car owners may be able to bypass the issue thanks to Mercedes' new system, featured on the recently introduced E-Klasse Cabriolet. Dubbed by the Stuttgart-based carmaker AIRCAP, the system is meant to do two things: keep air turbulence to a minimum and enable o... (read more)]]> Wed, 16 Dec 2009 14:51:34 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/mercedes-aircap-keeping-your-hair-in-one-place-14585.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/mercedes-aircap-keeping-your-hair-in-one-place-14585.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/mercedes-benz-4matic-explained-14334.html
Th...]]> The 4Matic (derived from 4wheel-drive and automatic) is the name of the AWD four-wheel drive system developed by Mercedes-Benz, which allows drivers to better handle their vehicle on slippery surfaces, such as snow-covered or icy roads. The system first debuted in the W124 E-Klasse model series back in 1987 and is currently available on 52 Mercedes-Benz passenger car models across nine series which include the E-Klasse, C-Klasse, R-Klasse, S-Klasse, Viano and the brand's entire SUV range.

Th... (read more)]]> Thu, 10 Dec 2009 15:38:00 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/mercedes-benz-4matic-explained-14334.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/mercedes-benz-4matic-explained-14334.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-pit-crews-work-in-motorsport-14225.html
One could argue that the proportion in which the pit crew helps and guides a driver through winning a race differs from series to series. And we're not to contradict that! Obviously, a tire cha...]]> Today we're going to focus on how pit crews do their jobs in the multitude of forms of motor racing there are in the world. It's a well-known fact that winning a race in any series worldwide involves not only some incredible driving skills from the competitor inside the cockpit, but also a team effort.

One could argue that the proportion in which the pit crew helps and guides a driver through winning a race differs from series to series. And we're not to contradict that! Obviously, a tire cha... (read more)]]> Tue, 8 Dec 2009 15:54:25 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-pit-crews-work-in-motorsport-14225.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-pit-crews-work-in-motorsport-14225.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/shifting-gears-on-a-motorcycle-14103.html
Assuming you don't know this by now, we will tell you what each of them does, before moving on to detailing the technique. Not quantum physics actually: the throttle revs the engine, the clutch engages and disengages the transmission, while the gear s...]]> Ignored by many, proper gear shifting is just as important as braking. Working on the same principle as with cars, shifting gears on a motorcycle has three basic controls that need to be operated: the throttle, the clutch and the gear selector.

Assuming you don't know this by now, we will tell you what each of them does, before moving on to detailing the technique. Not quantum physics actually: the throttle revs the engine, the clutch engages and disengages the transmission, while the gear s... (read more)]]> Fri, 4 Dec 2009 16:05:24 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/shifting-gears-on-a-motorcycle-14103.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/shifting-gears-on-a-motorcycle-14103.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-to-do-a-motorcycle-burnout-13787.html
First things first, the burnout, as e...]]> Yet another guide on ‘the best way to ruin your tires' crossed our minds, as many beginner riders have three things on their 'to do list' when starting their riding career: wheelies, stoppies and... burnouts. Since we have already given you a few (hopefully useful) tips on how to do the first two stunts on the list, it is time to see what the steps in doing a motorcycle burnout are, which is also known as a ‘peel out' or ‘power brake'.

First things first, the burnout, as e... (read more)]]> Thu, 26 Nov 2009 15:47:40 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-to-do-a-motorcycle-burnout-13787.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-to-do-a-motorcycle-burnout-13787.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/ford-mykey-system-explained-13465.html
...]]> The MyKey system was introduced by Ford in October 2008 and first debuted as a standard feature of the 2010 Ford Focus, also set to quickly be integrated in many other Ford, Lincoln and Mercury models. Designed as a safety feature to help parents limit speed and audio volume and therefore reduce the number of reckless accidents, Ford's MyKey technology also encourages safety-belt usage, provides earlier low-fuel warnings and can be programmed to sound chimes at 45, 55 and 65 miles per hour.

... (read more)]]> Thu, 19 Nov 2009 14:58:48 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/ford-mykey-system-explained-13465.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/ford-mykey-system-explained-13465.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-inflatable-seat-belts-work-13197.html
We know, just by looking at the name of the innovation, you can't but wonder why did we have to develop them only now, in 2009, given the fact that seat belts have been around since the mid-1850s (or 1885, if we count from ...]]> The biggest news this past week from the automotive industry, in terms of safety innovations at least, was Ford's announcement it has completed work on the world's first inflatable seat belts - a brilliant combination between the seat belt and the attributes of an airbag.

We know, just by looking at the name of the innovation, you can't but wonder why did we have to develop them only now, in 2009, given the fact that seat belts have been around since the mid-1850s (or 1885, if we count from ... (read more)]]> Thu, 12 Nov 2009 15:25:04 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-inflatable-seat-belts-work-13197.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-inflatable-seat-belts-work-13197.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/racing-fuels-12947.html A logical argumentation regarding the topic we're about to discuss would be the following: out-of-this-world engines (in terms of structure, power and way of functioning) will consequently use an out-of-this-world type of fuel in order to deliver out-of-this-world performance. Although the term out-of-this-world was heavily peppered throughout the last sentence, one cannot otherwise explain the immense power generated by the engines used in motorsport. They must benefit from a magical fuel that ... (read more)]]> Fri, 6 Nov 2009 13:37:11 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/racing-fuels-12947.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/racing-fuels-12947.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/honda-gold-wing-motorcycle-airbag-system-explained-12559.html Most of us already know what an airbag or Supplementary Restraint System is and what it is meant to do and that's to save lives. Often referred to as a car safety device, the airbag is destined to prevent vehicle occupants from hitting interior objects and therefore lessen the severity of injuries. It is even used in the aerospace industry and military applications. So, how come all the cars are having this safety device, but there is only one production motorcycle in the world that it is fitted... (read more)]]> Wed, 28 Oct 2009 15:50:33 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/honda-gold-wing-motorcycle-airbag-system-explained-12559.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/honda-gold-wing-motorcycle-airbag-system-explained-12559.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-onstar-stolen-vehicle-assistance-works-12380.html
Unfortunately for most, once your car got stolen, that's about all she wrote. Even if you get to the scene, and see your car drive away while your not in it, there's not muc...]]> If there is one thing that annoys drivers even more than congested traffic or police officer, that's having their car stolen. In fact, we are quite sure a driver who finds himself staring at an empty parking spot would like nothing better than to catch the guy who left with his/her car and really beat some sense into him.

Unfortunately for most, once your car got stolen, that's about all she wrote. Even if you get to the scene, and see your car drive away while your not in it, there's not muc... (read more)]]> Fri, 23 Oct 2009 14:29:40 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-onstar-stolen-vehicle-assistance-works-12380.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-onstar-stolen-vehicle-assistance-works-12380.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/speedstart-2nd-generation-stop-start-12188.html
A stop-start system is especially aimed at shutting down the engine whenever the car is not in moti...]]> Stop-start systems are becoming more popular nowadays, especially when taking into account that most governments across the world are offering incentives for green vehicles that achieve outstanding fuel efficiency and emission figures. Up until now, most carmaker out there developed their very own stop-start technology, obviously with a different name but all of them based on the same solution.

A stop-start system is especially aimed at shutting down the engine whenever the car is not in moti... (read more)]]> Mon, 19 Oct 2009 15:00:14 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/speedstart-2nd-generation-stop-start-12188.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/speedstart-2nd-generation-stop-start-12188.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/mercedes-benz-linguatronic-system-explained-12031.html
Since then, the product has been undergoing several changes and has spread to other brands as well, reflecting the Mercedes-Benz philosophy that s...]]> Destined to allow drivers to access common navigation functions by speaking normally, the in-car speech recognition and voice-operated command and control systems are today featured in many cars. However, Mercedes-Benz was the first automobile brand that introduced such a system on the market, back in 1996 in the S-Klasse, namely the Linguatronic.

Since then, the product has been undergoing several changes and has spread to other brands as well, reflecting the Mercedes-Benz philosophy that s... (read more)]]> Wed, 14 Oct 2009 14:48:27 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/mercedes-benz-linguatronic-system-explained-12031.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/mercedes-benz-linguatronic-system-explained-12031.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/motorcycle-washing-tips-11871.html
Sure, having two beautiful girls in white (and wet) T-shirts and bikini with a sponge and with foam all over, could be a good start. But since it's not a ...]]> A motorcycle is like a piece of jewelry that needs to be treated with a great deal of attention and has to be properly maintained. Cleaning and washing a motorcycle are just as important as the regular technical maintenance activities. Moreover, a clean bike is easier to maintain, as any leaks can be spotted quicker, before getting serious.

Sure, having two beautiful girls in white (and wet) T-shirts and bikini with a sponge and with foam all over, could be a good start. But since it's not a ... (read more)]]> Fri, 9 Oct 2009 14:25:21 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/motorcycle-washing-tips-11871.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/motorcycle-washing-tips-11871.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/all-fuel-external-combustion-engine-11661.html
WHO SAID "EUREKA"

The engine we are going to talk about here is made by Cyclone Power Technologies, based in Pompano Beach, Florida. The man who runs the compa...]]> The first time we came across the aforementioned properties of the Cyclone Engine, we must admit we were a bit confused. Although we can fully grasp the notion of an all-fuel engine - capable of running of virtually any fuel out there without modifying it - the notion of an external combustion engine is a bit...startling.

WHO SAID "EUREKA"

The engine we are going to talk about here is made by Cyclone Power Technologies, based in Pompano Beach, Florida. The man who runs the compa... (read more)]]> Mon, 5 Oct 2009 14:05:45 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/all-fuel-external-combustion-engine-11661.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/all-fuel-external-combustion-engine-11661.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-volvo-s-pedestrian-protection-system-works-11554.html
Just as its name suggests, the new preventive safety technology is aimed at enhancing safety for pedestrians, after more and more s...]]> In the last few years, companies made the development of safety technologies addressed to both car passengers and pedestrians a top priority, so a lot of new innovations saw daylight, at least in prototype form. One of these systems is Volvo's Collision Warning with Full Auto Brake and Pedestrian Safety, a very complex title for a simple yet efficient technology.

Just as its name suggests, the new preventive safety technology is aimed at enhancing safety for pedestrians, after more and more s... (read more)]]> Thu, 1 Oct 2009 14:05:13 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-volvo-s-pedestrian-protection-system-works-11554.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-volvo-s-pedestrian-protection-system-works-11554.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-f1-safety-works-11416.html
Which is what brings us to...]]> Driving Formula One cars must be the dream of every living racing fan out there. We're not going to get into a dispute over which is best, Formula One or NASCAR, as the prototype of a racing fan is not based on nationalities, but on that desire to get behind the wheel and race like crazy. The Great Circle has been righteously named The Pinnacle of Motorsports as it benefits from the latest developments in terms of engine, aerodynamics, electronic systems and safety.

Which is what brings us to... (read more)]]> Mon, 28 Sep 2009 14:30:45 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-f1-safety-works-11416.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-f1-safety-works-11416.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-run-flat-tires-work-11261.html
But companies out...]]> Replacing a flat tire with the spare one is often a nightmare, especially if you're a women or (to avoid getting accused of a misogynist attitude) if you're a man and outside, the heavy rain makes an umbrella a waste of time. But even so, most cars are equipped with a spare tire and every driver, more or less experienced, has to have the know-how to replace a flat tire. Somehow, every driver out there learns, sooner or later, forced by such an event or voluntarily, to do it.

But companies out... (read more)]]> Wed, 23 Sep 2009 14:17:04 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-run-flat-tires-work-11261.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-run-flat-tires-work-11261.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/long-distance-riding-tips-11089.html It may sound like a soap-opera line but... there's a time in every rider's life when he or she has to go for a long distance trip (and by ‘long distance' we mean several hundreds of kilometers/miles). Though many of you might think that there's not much of a difference between daily commuting to work or back home and long distance riding, the truth is that the latter involves hours of preparation and plenty of rules to follow. Aside of arriving live and well at your destination, the basic ... (read more)]]> Fri, 18 Sep 2009 14:44:33 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/long-distance-riding-tips-11089.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/long-distance-riding-tips-11089.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/motorcycle-security-tips-10679.html
Moreover, what you should know is that, just like with cars, thieves are more intereste...]]> Any rider is (or should be) aware of its vulnerability when it comes to theft prevention, as there are more motorcycles stolen than cars... and even less recovered. Being an easy target for the thieves is something that could be avoided if most riders would simply follow some basic steps in order to protect their motorcycles. After all, it's better to be a bit more careful than being too late in the field.

Moreover, what you should know is that, just like with cars, thieves are more intereste... (read more)]]> Tue, 8 Sep 2009 14:10:33 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/motorcycle-security-tips-10679.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/motorcycle-security-tips-10679.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/post-crash-behavior-tips-10379.html
Of course, there are several types of crashes, but in this guide we will cover the basic things to do when you are involved i...]]> There is no single driver out there who, at one point, didn't have to deal with the consequences of either a minor fender bender or a major pile-up. Of course, every one of us has his/her own way of reacting to such an unfortunate event but, basically, we should all know what are the very first things to do and, more importantly, NOT to do when involved in a car crash.

Of course, there are several types of crashes, but in this guide we will cover the basic things to do when you are involved i... (read more)]]> Fri, 28 Aug 2009 14:10:45 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/post-crash-behavior-tips-10379.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/post-crash-behavior-tips-10379.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-blow-off-valves-work-10230.html
First of all, what i...]]> Turbocharged engines are commonly used for better performance but tuning houses and car enthusiasts around the world are trying, with the help of a number of tweaks, to obtain even more. One of these enhancements that can be applied to turbocharged powertrains exclusively is the blow-off valve (BOV), an upgrade that can sometime prove to be more useful for those people looking to get a hissing sound out of their ordinary engine. But let's take all these things one by one.

First of all, what i... (read more)]]> Tue, 25 Aug 2009 13:30:15 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-blow-off-valves-work-10230.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-blow-off-valves-work-10230.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-to-tow-get-towed-by-a-nonrigid-connection-9923.html
Towing or being towed by means of rope (we will use the term for c...]]> Believe it or not, the simple act of towing or being towed has a certain set of rules to be followed in order to achieve a smooth, carefree ride. In this piece we will cover the basics of towing by means of rope, as, let's face it, towing by a platform or trailer does not imply any effort from your part. We will take into account a situation where you have no tow truck, tow dolly or towbar at your disposal. What else is there?

Towing or being towed by means of rope (we will use the term for c... (read more)]]> Mon, 17 Aug 2009 14:09:32 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-to-tow-get-towed-by-a-nonrigid-connection-9923.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-to-tow-get-towed-by-a-nonrigid-connection-9923.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/driving-through-fog-guide-for-a-safe-return-9596.html
As for any driving situation you may encounter,...]]> Ever thought how would it be to drive blindfolded? Ever experienced it? Well, it may not seem as a big deal, but fog is a real threat to motorists unlucky enough to encounter it. In severe situations, fog can be perceived as a white wall of an uneven consistency, limiting the driver's visibility to as little as 10 meters (32 feet). Combined with the darkness of the night and a dark stretch of road, fog can make for one eerie driving experience.

As for any driving situation you may encounter,... (read more)]]> Thu, 6 Aug 2009 13:49:45 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/driving-through-fog-guide-for-a-safe-return-9596.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/driving-through-fog-guide-for-a-safe-return-9596.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/parking-guide-for-dummies-9456.html
Furthermore, we know from experience parking comes in small packages, sort of speaking. All of us have no idea how to park a car, at least in the first months following the passing of THE EXAM. In time, as we get accustomed with the car, park...]]> We are sure most of you who own a driver's license pretty much know how parking works. Yet, we can't but be amazed of the gazillion  Youtube/whatever videos showing more or less experienced driver's having the hardest time of their lives trying to park.

Furthermore, we know from experience parking comes in small packages, sort of speaking. All of us have no idea how to park a car, at least in the first months following the passing of THE EXAM. In time, as we get accustomed with the car, park... (read more)]]> Mon, 3 Aug 2009 14:45:09 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/parking-guide-for-dummies-9456.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/parking-guide-for-dummies-9456.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/car-sharing-city-motoring-of-the-third-degree-9255.html
The basis for car rental was set in 1916, when a Nebraska Ford Model T owner started renting his car to local businessmen, starting one of the most success...]]> Some many years back, together with the advent of the rent-a-car concept, a new way of motoring was born. Businessmen traveling from city to city no longer had to worry about transport when they reached their destination. Soon, you no longer had to own a car to drive one, nor did you need to ask your friend for permission to use his/hers.

The basis for car rental was set in 1916, when a Nebraska Ford Model T owner started renting his car to local businessmen, starting one of the most success... (read more)]]> Tue, 28 Jul 2009 13:48:12 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/car-sharing-city-motoring-of-the-third-degree-9255.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/car-sharing-city-motoring-of-the-third-degree-9255.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/race-flags-nascar-9089.html NASCAR has only 11 racing flags, aimed to help the race officials control the championship races weekend in and weekend out. From our previous "Racing Flags" sessions, it's quite obvious this North American racing series has the fewest flags from all major motor sport competitions worldwide. Whether that's because the cars keep running in ovals (most of the times) or not, we don't know. However, the next-to-be-explained race flags are a sine-qua-non element of arguably the most popular... (read more)]]> Thu, 23 Jul 2009 14:51:02 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/race-flags-nascar-9089.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/race-flags-nascar-9089.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-magnetorheological-suspension-works-8947.html
What sets it apart from other suspension systems is the fact that it lacks any electro-mechanical valves and it basically has no small moving parts. Inst...]]> Introduced for the first time in 2002, on GM's Cadillac Seville STS, the so called magnetorheological suspension system is slowly but surely catching on. Although it has been made available on several vehicles, including Buick and Chevrolet, the system has been made famous by German manufacturer Audi, with its introduction on the TT and R8.

What sets it apart from other suspension systems is the fact that it lacks any electro-mechanical valves and it basically has no small moving parts. Inst... (read more)]]> Mon, 20 Jul 2009 13:45:49 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-magnetorheological-suspension-works-8947.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-magnetorheological-suspension-works-8947.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/hybrid-vs-plug-in-hybrid-8615.html
Most of you know by now what each of them is all about. Yet, the hybrid segment of the automotive industry is still in a type of blur, as the distinction between hybrid and plug-in hybrid is not very often properly...]]> The latest developments in terms of technology in the automotive industry have caught most of us by surprise. Despite financial downfall, R&D has continued within manufacturers' labs and we now find ourselves engulfed in an unprecedented battle of hybrids, plug-in hybrids and EVs.

Most of you know by now what each of them is all about. Yet, the hybrid segment of the automotive industry is still in a type of blur, as the distinction between hybrid and plug-in hybrid is not very often properly... (read more)]]> Thu, 9 Jul 2009 13:41:03 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/hybrid-vs-plug-in-hybrid-8615.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/hybrid-vs-plug-in-hybrid-8615.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/best-beginner-motorcycles-8530.html
Why Not Bigger?

It's like in all of those cases when rich parents who buy their kids powerful sports cars to smash it in less than ...]]> Everybody likes how a 600cc motorcycle looks and sounds like and immediately after taking a riding course they jump right on one of these beasts, without taking time to put the advantages and disadvantages into balance. Maybe you are a great rider and everything, but this doesn't make you an experienced one. This is a few of those cases when smaller is better.

Why Not Bigger?

It's like in all of those cases when rich parents who buy their kids powerful sports cars to smash it in less than ... (read more)]]> Tue, 7 Jul 2009 14:33:11 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/best-beginner-motorcycles-8530.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/best-beginner-motorcycles-8530.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/dimming-mirrors-explained-8414.html
When "the others" come, things change. Most of you, we are sure, have experienced the transition from...]]> For those of you out there who at one point in their lives found out, to your surprise, that your eyes no longer serve their purpose as good as they used too, the invention of the dimming mirror must have seemed as a Godsend gift. Driving during a dark, eerie night, on a road with no natural or man-made lighting may be fun, as long as you and your car are the only ones on that road.

When "the others" come, things change. Most of you, we are sure, have experienced the transition from... (read more)]]> Fri, 3 Jul 2009 13:40:50 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/dimming-mirrors-explained-8414.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/dimming-mirrors-explained-8414.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/race-flags-indy-racing-league-8367.html
One example would be the flag signaling a driver in a slower car that he'...]]> After Formula One, the IRL Indy Car series has the most race flags from all open-wheel racing series worldwide. The North American championship has no less than 11 flags to make use of during a racing weekend, each signaling something different to the usual IRL driver. As compared to its European counterpart Formula One, some of the flags used in the IRL - although having the same appearance - lead to different signals.

One example would be the flag signaling a driver in a slower car that he'... (read more)]]> Thu, 2 Jul 2009 13:39:35 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/race-flags-indy-racing-league-8367.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/race-flags-indy-racing-league-8367.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-to-ride-as-a-passenger-8282.html
When riding with a passenger, the bike is heavier and won't steer as easily or brake as f...]]> Though you might think there isn't much to say, riding as a passenger is even harder than learning how to ride a motorcycle. The same applies for the rider himself, as riding with a passenger requires even more skills than riding alone. There are no schools to teach people how to ride as passengers, so this is something you should learn from the advices of experienced riders... or experienced passengers.

When riding with a passenger, the bike is heavier and won't steer as easily or brake as f... (read more)]]> Tue, 30 Jun 2009 14:23:41 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-to-ride-as-a-passenger-8282.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-to-ride-as-a-passenger-8282.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/race-flags-formula-one-8085.html
Nowadays, flags in motor sports are not only used by race marshals to signal the start or end of a race, but also to warn drivers about potential danger ahead or even to hand drastic penalties. A driver c...]]> Race flags are a common thing in all motor sport series worldwide. More than that, it is the only way - except for team radio - that drivers can keep track of what's happening in the race, whether it's about something they did or about something that may influence their behavior in the race.

Nowadays, flags in motor sports are not only used by race marshals to signal the start or end of a race, but also to warn drivers about potential danger ahead or even to hand drastic penalties. A driver c... (read more)]]> Wed, 24 Jun 2009 14:08:29 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/race-flags-formula-one-8085.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/race-flags-formula-one-8085.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/riding-skills-how-to-brake-effectively-7993.html
First of all, the whole purpose of braking is either to safely arrive in a particular spot at the desired speed. That includes both stopping a...]]> Mastering a motorcycle's brakes is the most difficult task, but it can also make the difference when it comes to avoiding a collision, which could end up in tragedy. Though many assume effective braking involves more bravery than brain, it's for the best to realize exactly what is that you want to achieve with braking and what is the best way to do it.

First of all, the whole purpose of braking is either to safely arrive in a particular spot at the desired speed. That includes both stopping a... (read more)]]> Mon, 22 Jun 2009 15:15:38 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/riding-skills-how-to-brake-effectively-7993.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/riding-skills-how-to-brake-effectively-7993.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-multi-link-suspension-works-7804.html
However, since this is such a complex chapter, we'll have to take them one at a time. This article will deal with the popular multi-link type. But first,...]]> Probably one of the most complex aspects of a car's structure, suspension is also one of the most confusing, and thus neglected, parts for a potential buyer. Suspension plays a vital role in a vehicle's stability and in the comfort it provides to its occupants and that is why we feel it deserves a detailed description into how it functions.

However, since this is such a complex chapter, we'll have to take them one at a time. This article will deal with the popular multi-link type. But first,... (read more)]]> Wed, 17 Jun 2009 07:25:23 GMT Auto Guide - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-multi-link-suspension-works-7804.html Auto Guide http://www.autoevolution.com/news/how-multi-link-suspension-works-7804.html#comments autoevolution